Senior Moving Guide & FAQ

Moving can be overwhelming at any age, but especially during later life transitions. Whether you're downsizing, relocating to a retirement community, or helping a loved one transition, this guide will help you understand what to prepare and what to expect during a senior move.


What You Need for Your Move


• A Trusted Moving Company – Choose one with senior-friendly services and experience.

• Senior Move Manager (Optional but Highly Recommended) – Provides emotional support, downsizing help, and organization.

• Packing Supplies – Boxes, labels, packing paper, tape, bubble wrap, and markers.

• Medication & Important Documents – Keep these in a separate, easily accessible bag.

• A Floor Plan of the New Home – Helps with downsizing and furniture placement.

• Donation or Discard Plan – Know what items will be donated, sold, or thrown away.

• An Essentials Box – Include toiletries, snacks, first-night clothing, and comfort items.

• Storage Options – For overflow items or temporary holding during the move.

• Contact List – Movers, utility companies, medical providers, and family support.

• Emergency Plan – Have contact numbers, medications, and mobility aids easily reachable.


What to Expect During the Move



• A Detailed Move Plan – Created by your move coordinator to avoid surprises.

• Professional Packing – If selected, teams will handle fragile items with care.

• Labeling & Inventory – Boxes will be clearly labeled by room or contents.

• Clear Communication – You'll receive updates and can contact your move lead anytime.

• Safe Handling – Movers will use protective equipment and techniques.

• Loading & Transport – Belongings are loaded securely and transported safely.

• Setup at the New Home – Furniture placed where you want it, with reassembly if needed.

• Optional Unpacking Help – We can assist with organizing and removing boxes.

• Emotional Support – Compassionate staff are trained to handle the stress of transition.

• Follow-Up Check-In – We'll call after the move to ensure your satisfaction and comfort.

  • How do you protect my belongings?

    We use premium moving blankets, shrink wrap, and custom crating to safeguard items during transport—ideal for senior downsizing or legacy preservation.
  • What if I have mobility limitations or health concerns?

    We offer lift-free options, ADA-friendly planning, and full-service moves where you never need to lift or pack a thing.
  • Will someone be with me on move day?

    Yes. You’ll have a dedicated move coordinator to manage everything from loading to final setup, ensuring a personalized and stress-free senior move.
  • How are your movers different?

    Our background-checked, senior-trained movers handle every item with care—ideal for heirlooms, antiques, and delicate valuables.
  • Can you move my piano, safe, or antique furniture?

    Yes. On Call Moving specializes in heavy item moving—pianos, safes, gun cabinets, and fine furniture. Licensed and insured for peace of mind.
  • Do you only work with seniors?

    We serve all ages, but we specialize in senior relocation, retirement community moves, and downsizing help. Families trust us for our experience and patience.
  • Can you help with estate cleanouts or selling items?

    Yes. Caring Transitions provides estate cleanout services, online auctions, and donation coordination—ideal for estate settlement or downsizing.
  • Do I have to pack everything myself?

    Not at all. We offer senior-friendly packing services with optional full or partial packing, labeling, and unpacking for a truly hands-free moving experience.
  • Can you help me downsize before the move?

    Absolutely. Our professional downsizing services help sort, declutter, and prepare your home—perfect for aging in place, senior living transitions, or estate planning.
  • What is a senior move manager?

    A certified Senior Move Manager® is trained to help older adults with downsizing, packing, organizing, emotional support, estate transitions, and coordination of moves into assisted living or retirement communities.
  • How do I get started?

    Contact us for a free, no-obligation senior move consultation. Whether you're planning months ahead or need fast relocation help, we’re ready.
  • What if I’m moving into assisted living or a retirement community?

    We specialize in senior community relocations. We understand the process, requirements, and floor plans—making your move seamless and stress-free.
  • How do you handle emotional challenges during a move?

    Our compassionate move specialists understand the emotional toll of leaving a long-time home. We support decision-making with patience and care.
  • What safety protocols do you follow?

    We are licensed, insured, and follow best practices for senior safety, including slip-resistant floor coverings and lifting assistance.
  • Do you provide digital or printed inventories?

    Yes. We offer move management tools like digital inventories and custom labeling for organized and trackable senior moves.
  • Do you help families from out of town?

    Yes. We provide remote move coordination and digital updates, supporting adult children helping parents relocate or downsize from out of state.
  • What if I need help reconnecting electronics or hanging pictures?

    Our resettling services include basic tech setup and wall hanging to make your new home move-in ready from day one.
  • How much notice do you need to schedule a move?

    Ideally 2–3 weeks, but we offer flexible scheduling for local and long-distance moves, including last-minute senior transitions and emergency relocations.
  • What makes you different from other moving companies?

    We’re the only team in Central Florida offering both NASMM-certified senior move management and full-service moving under one umbrella. No third-party contractors—just trusted, compassionate relocation experts.
  • Do you offer short-term storage?

    Yes. On Call Moving offers secure, climate-controlled storage for seniors downsizing, staging homes for sale, or awaiting new housing.

Have More Questions?